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If you’ve ever dined at Cracker Barrel, you’re probably familiar with their irresistible chicken and broccoli dish.
It’s a comforting combination of tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and a rich, creamy sauce that comes together perfectly.
Now, imagine enjoying that same dish in the comfort of your own home. This Cracker Barrel Chicken Broccoli Recipe lets you recreate the restaurant’s signature flavors with ease.
Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or preparing a meal for family and friends, this recipe delivers all the satisfaction of the original—without needing to leave your kitchen.
In this recipe, we’ll walk you through each step, from seasoning the chicken to creating the creamy sauce and ensuring that the broccoli stays bright and flavorful.
You’ll learn how to make the most out of simple ingredients to create a dish that’s not only delicious but also filling and nutritious. Let’s get started!
Ingredients You’ll Need for the Cracker Barrel Chicken Broccoli Recipe
To make this Cracker Barrel-inspired chicken broccoli dish, you’ll need a few essential ingredients that bring the flavors to life.
Don’t worry—it’s a simple list that packs a big punch.
For the Chicken:
- Chicken breasts or thighs – Choose boneless, skinless chicken for ease of cooking. Chicken breasts offer a leaner option, while thighs provide more flavor and juiciness.
- Olive oil – For searing the chicken to a golden, crispy perfection.
- Salt and pepper – Essential for seasoning the chicken and enhancing its flavor.
- Garlic powder – To give the chicken an extra layer of savory depth.
For the Broccoli:
- Fresh broccoli florets – The star of the dish! Fresh broccoli will retain a better texture when cooked and offers a slight crunch.
- Salt – A pinch for blanching the broccoli, ensuring it stays bright green and flavorful.
For the Creamy Sauce:
- Heavy cream – The base of the rich, velvety sauce that brings everything together.
- Cheddar cheese – Cracker Barrel’s classic, sharp cheddar is key to achieving that cheesy, satisfying finish.
- Parmesan cheese – Adds a sharp, nutty flavor to complement the cheddar.
- Butter – For a smooth and buttery sauce.
- Flour – To help thicken the sauce to the perfect consistency.
- Garlic cloves – Fresh minced garlic adds a fragrant depth to the sauce.
- Onion powder – A subtle seasoning that enhances the creaminess of the sauce.
- Paprika – For a bit of color and mild warmth in the sauce.
Optional Add-ins and Substitutions:
- Gluten-free flour – If you need a gluten-free version, this is a great alternative for thickening the sauce.
- Half-and-half or milk – If you want a lighter sauce, you can substitute part of the heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk.
- Fresh herbs – A sprinkle of fresh thyme or parsley can elevate the flavor even further.
With these ingredients, you’ll be able to recreate the Cracker Barrel chicken broccoli dish to perfection. The balance of tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and creamy cheese sauce is what makes this recipe truly special.
Step-by-Step Instructions for the Perfect Chicken Broccoli Dish
1. Preparing the Chicken
To start, we’ll focus on cooking the chicken perfectly, as it is the foundation of this dish.
Begin by seasoning your chicken breasts or thighs with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
This simple seasoning allows the natural flavors of the chicken to shine through.
In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken pieces and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, depending on thickness.
You’re looking for a golden-brown crust on the outside and an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest while you prepare the other components of the dish.
This ensures the juices stay locked in, keeping the chicken moist.
2. Blanching the Broccoli
Next, it’s time to prepare the broccoli. In a pot of boiling water, add a pinch of salt.
Add the broccoli florets to the water and cook for about 2-3 minutes, just until they’re bright green and slightly tender but still crisp.
You don’t want to overcook the broccoli, as it can turn mushy.
Once done, immediately drain the broccoli and transfer it to a bowl of ice water to halt the cooking process.
This helps maintain that vibrant green color and crisp texture.
Set the broccoli aside to add to your dish later.
3. Making the Creamy Sauce
Now it’s time to create the rich, cheesy sauce that brings everything together.
In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Next, add 1 tablespoon of flour to the skillet and whisk it into the butter and garlic to create a roux.
Cook this for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste. Slowly pour in the heavy cream, whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce begins to thicken.
Once the sauce has thickened, stir in the cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese.
Continue to whisk until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Add onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper to taste.
4. Assembling the Dish
Now it’s time to bring everything together. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a baking dish, place your rested chicken breasts or thighs.
Arrange the blanched broccoli around the chicken, making sure it’s evenly distributed.
Pour the creamy cheese sauce over both the chicken and the broccoli, ensuring that every piece is covered.
5. Baking to Perfection
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes.
The chicken should be fully cooked through, and the sauce should be bubbly and golden on top.
If you’d like a crispier, golden finish, broil the dish for an additional 2-3 minutes, but keep an eye on it to prevent burning.
Once baked, remove from the oven and let the dish sit for a few minutes before serving. This helps the sauce to set and makes for easier serving.
Tips for the Best Cracker Barrel Chicken Broccoli Recipe
Keep the Chicken Juicy
For the juiciest chicken, don’t overcook it.
Always use a meat thermometer to check for doneness—165°F (75°C) is the magic number.
If you’re using chicken breasts, you can also pound them to an even thickness before cooking to ensure they cook evenly.
Properly Blanch the Broccoli
Blanching is key to achieving that perfect texture for the broccoli.
Be sure not to overcook it in the boiling water; it should be slightly crisp but tender.
The ice water bath is essential for preserving both color and crunch.
Perfect the Creamy Sauce
For a smoother sauce, whisk continuously when adding the cream to the roux.
If the sauce gets too thick, simply add a little more cream or milk to thin it out.
For extra richness, you can even stir in a little bit of cream cheese.
Customize the Cheese
Cracker Barrel’s signature dish is known for its creamy cheese sauce.
If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding other cheeses like gouda or mozzarella for a unique twist.
The combination of cheddar and Parmesan, however, remains the best to replicate that restaurant-style flavor.
Avoid Overbaking
Once the chicken is cooked and the sauce is bubbling, take the dish out of the oven.
Overbaking can cause the chicken to dry out and the sauce to lose its creamy texture.
Keep an eye on it and remove it from the oven when it looks just right.
Use a Sharp Knife for Serving
Once the dish is baked, allow it to rest for a few minutes before slicing the chicken.
This ensures the juices remain inside the meat, keeping it moist and flavorful.
By following these tips, you’ll be able to recreate Cracker Barrel’s beloved chicken broccoli dish with the perfect balance of flavors and textures.
Final Thoughts: Why You’ll Love Making the Cracker Barrel Chicken Broccoli Recipe at Home
This Cracker Barrel Chicken Broccoli Recipe brings the warmth and comfort of a restaurant-quality meal right into your home kitchen.
With tender, juicy chicken, crisp broccoli, and a rich, creamy cheese sauce, it’s a dish that is both satisfying and wholesome.
Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or preparing a special meal for guests, this recipe is easy to follow and perfect for any occasion.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity, using just a few ingredients to create a dish full of flavor.
It’s the ideal balance of protein and vegetables, making it a healthier option without sacrificing taste.
Plus, once you’ve mastered the steps, it’s a recipe that can be adjusted to suit your personal preferences, whether you want to play around with cheeses, spices, or additional ingredients.
Next time you’re craving Cracker Barrel’s iconic chicken and broccoli, give this homemade version a try.
We’re sure it’ll become a regular in your dinner rotation!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about the Cracker Barrel Chicken Broccoli Recipe
1. Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli, but keep in mind that fresh broccoli will have a firmer texture and better color.
If using frozen, blanch it for a shorter time to avoid overcooking it.
Also, make sure to drain it well to prevent excess moisture in the dish.
2. How can I make this recipe ahead of time?
To prepare ahead of time, you can cook the chicken, blanch the broccoli, and make the sauce in advance. Store these components separately in the fridge.
When ready to assemble, simply combine them, pour the sauce over the chicken and broccoli, and bake as instructed.
You can also refrigerate the assembled dish and bake it the next day.
3. Can I use a different type of cheese for the sauce?
Absolutely! While cheddar and Parmesan are classic choices for the creamy sauce, you can swap in other cheeses like mozzarella, gouda, or even Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile.
Just be sure to choose cheeses that melt well for a smooth and creamy sauce.
4. How do I store and reheat leftovers?
To store leftovers, place the chicken and broccoli in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
When reheating, you can microwave individual portions or reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
If the sauce seems too thick, you can add a splash of cream or milk to help restore its creamy consistency.
5. Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, it’s possible to make this dish dairy-free! You can substitute the heavy cream with a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream or cashew cream.
For the cheese, there are great dairy-free cheese options available that melt well, such as vegan cheddar or mozzarella.
Use a dairy-free butter substitute for the sauce, and you’ll have a delicious, creamy dish without any dairy.
Cracker Barrel Chicken Broccoli
Equipment
- 1 large skillet (12-inch)
- 1 large pot for blanching broccoli
- 1 Baking dish (9×13 inches)
- (1) Whisk
- 1 knife (for chopping garlic and slicing chicken)
- 1 cutting board
- 1 meat thermometer (optional, for checking chicken doneness)
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 teaspoon salt for blanching
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 garlic cloves minced
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup cheddar cheese shredded
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese grated
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken:
- Season the chicken breasts or thighs with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through (165°F internal temperature). Once cooked, remove from the skillet and set aside to rest.
Blanch the Broccoli:
- Bring a pot of water to a boil and add 1 teaspoon of salt. Add the broccoli florets and cook for 2-3 minutes until tender but still bright green. Drain the broccoli and immediately transfer to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
Make the Creamy Sauce:
- In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in 1 tablespoon of flour to form a roux and cook for 1-2 minutes. Slowly add 1 cup of heavy cream, whisking constantly until smooth. Simmer for 2-3 minutes to thicken. Stir in 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese and ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Add onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper to taste.
Assemble the Dish:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange the cooked chicken breasts and surrounding broccoli. Pour the creamy cheese sauce evenly over the chicken and broccoli, ensuring everything is well-coated.
Bake:
- Bake the dish for 20-25 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbly and golden. For a crispier top, broil for 2-3 minutes at the end.
Serve:
- Let the dish rest for a few minutes before slicing the chicken. Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- Cheese Variations: You can use other cheeses like mozzarella or gouda to give the sauce a different flavor profile, though cheddar and Parmesan are the classic choices.
- Chicken Options: If you prefer chicken thighs, they offer a juicier result with a slightly richer flavor.
- Make-Ahead: You can prepare the chicken, broccoli, and sauce in advance and assemble the dish the day you plan to bake it. It will save time on busy nights.
- Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version, simply omit the chicken and add more vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or even cauliflower.
- Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
